Crewe seeking reinforcements

Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Davis wants to sign a new central midfielder and would ideally like to complete a deal before the weekend.

"We are trying to make a signing in that department" - Neil Baker

That follows Abdul Osman limping out of the midweek victory against Swindon Town after his recent ankle problem flared up once again.

Meanwhile, Davis is also likely to be without the services of on loan midfielder Andy Bond due to a groin strain as Yeovil Town come to Gresty Road on Saturday. Bond's current arrangement from Colchester United ends immediately following that game.

"We realise we are thin on the ground there and we are trying to make a signing in that department," assistant manager Neil Baker told This is Staffordshire.

Baker conceded the Alex were still trying to fully replace former skipper Ashley Westwood following his recent £2m move into the Premiership with Aston Villa.

"We have missed Ashley Westwood, there's no doubt about that. He controlled games, even at this level," he added. "Luke Murphy is doing well and has other assets to his game. We want him to be the midfielder that controls the tempo of the game and he is working towards that."